Marvin Laird, a renowned figure in the world of music, left an indelible mark with his compositions for Broadway and the big screen. His work with Bernadette Peters and many other renowned performers has become an integral part of musical history. Let's delve into the life and achievements of this talented musician.

Remembering Marvin Laird - A Musical Trailblazer

Early Beginnings on Broadway

Marvin Laird's journey in the music industry began in 1964 when he took on the role of a musical assistant on "Ben Franklin in Paris" on Broadway. Directed and choreographed by Michael Kidd and starring Robert Preston, this was the first of his 12 career assignments on the Great White Way. It was here that his talent started to shine and laid the foundation for his future success.He witnessed the magic of Broadway up close and personal, learning from the best and gradually carving out his own niche. This early experience exposed him to the intricacies of musical theater and gave him the confidence to pursue his dreams.

Collaborations with Bernadette Peters

Marvin Laird's association with Bernadette Peters was a significant part of his career. He served as her musical director for many years and conducted for hit Broadway revivals such as "Annie Get Your Gun" from 1999 to 2001, "Gypsy" from 2003 to 2004, and "Follies" from 2011 to 2012. These productions were all starring Peters, and his musical direction added a new dimension to the performances.His impeccable style and delicious sense of humor endeared him to Peters and everyone else he worked with. As stated by the two-time Tony winner, "My beloved Marvin had impeccable style and a delicious sense of humor, and his generous spirit has made everyone he worked with fall in love with him." His support and love were a major benefit to Peters and the entire production team.

Music for Films and TV Shows

Marvin Laird's musical talents extended beyond Broadway. He wrote music and/or arrangements for several films, including Gene Kelly's "Hello, Dolly!" (1969) starring Barbra Streisand, Martin Scorsese's "New York, New York" (1977) starring Liza Minnelli and Robert De Niro, and Robert Altman's "The Company" (2003) starring Neve Campbell. His compositions added depth and emotion to these films, enhancing the overall viewing experience.He also scored TV shows such as "Maude", "Quincy, M.E.", "Dynasty", and "The Love Boat". His work on these shows demonstrated his versatility and ability to adapt to different mediums. Additionally, he composed the score for "1992's Ruthless! The Musical", which continues to attract new audiences even today.

Personal Life and Survivors

Marvin Laird was born on Oct. 26, 1939, in Kansas City, Kansas. He was survived by Joel Paley, his "partner in marriage and co-pilot for 48 years", his brother Larry, his sister-in-law Jeanne, and his nieces Lana and Lynnette. His personal life was an important part of him, and his family was a source of strength and support.In conclusion, Marvin Laird's contributions to the world of music are immeasurable. His compositions for Broadway and the big screen, his collaborations with renowned performers, and his work on various TV shows and films have left a lasting legacy. He will be remembered as a musical trailblazer who touched the lives of many with his talent and generosity.